Global Engineering as Marquette Students (GEMS)
Explore engineering industry and culture in specific regions alongside a cohort of peers during one-week and two-week trips hosted by Marquette's Opus College of Engineering.
Trips are typically offered during mid-semester breaks and over summer with an expanding list of destinations. Itineraries include visits to a region's engineering companies, universities and research institutions, as well as the historical and cultural sites that shape each region.
Benefits:
- Meet international engineering professionals and students to discover their approach to problem-solving, leadership, work and life.
- Go behind-the-scenes with international engineering organizations who lead solutions locally and globally.
- Gain valuable international experience in a shorter-term program that aligns with your other goals, commitments and graduation requirements.
Upcoming information sessions:
- September 14, 2026 | 5:00 - 5:30pm | Engineering Hall 136
- September 23, 2026 | 3:00-3:30pm | Engineering Hall 136
Upcoming trips:
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Belgium (Spring Break | March 18 - 25, 2027)
Expore engineering in Belgium from March 18 - 25, 2027 alongside faculty, staff and students. This trip includes visits to Antwerp, Brussels, Ghent and Leuven to explore regional engineering companies, universities, local culture and history.
Highlights of this trip include cutting-edge civil and infrastructure firms, sustainability experts, world-leading energy plants and world-renowned museums, heritage sites and more.
Information session dates:
- September 14, 2026 | 5:00 - 5:30pm | Engineering Hall 136
- September 23, 2026 | 3:00 - 3:30pm | Engineering Hall 136
Cost and application details coming soon
Italy and Germany (Summer | May 16 - 30, 2027)
Explore engineering in Italy and Germany from May 16 - 30, 2027 alongside faculty, staff and students. In Italy, students will primarily visit sites around Milan and Bologna. In Germany, visits will be located in and around Munich.
Highlights of this trip include leading automotive brands, cutting-edge civil and construction firms, and world-renowned museums, heritage sites and more.
Information session dates:
- September 14, 2026 | 5:00 - 5:30pm | Engineering Hall 136
- September 23, 2026 | 3:00 - 3:30pm | Engineering Hall 136
Cost and application details coming soon
United Kingdom and Ireland (Summer | May 16 - 30, 2027)
Explore engineering across Japan from May 16 - 30, 2027 alongside faculty, staff and students. This trip includes visits to Dublin, Edinburgh and London to explore regional engineering companies, universities, local culture and history.
Highlights of this trip include cutting-edge civil and infrastructure firms, sustainability leaders, manufacturing automation experts and world-renowned museums, heritage sites and more.
Information session dates:
- September 14, 2026 | 5:00 - 5:30pm | Engineering Hall 136
- September 23, 2026 | 3:00 - 3:30pm | Engineering Hall 136
Cost and application details coming soon
Frequently Asked Questions:
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What is the cost of the program?
Program costs vary depending on the destination and are shared above (2027 prices coming soon). Students are encouraged to attend information sessions to understand a more detailed explanation of costs.
Note: Airfare, some meals, and personal spending money are not included and are the responsibility of the participant.
How does the application process work?
The application process is completed in two steps:
- Submit your application online. 2027 program links coming soon.
- Once accepted, you will complete a second application for the university and program provider.
Are scholarships available?
Yes. Scholarships are available to help support program costs. After acceptance, students may submit a letter explaining your financial needs and the amount requested. Letters should be sent to lisa.chase@marquette.edu.
Do I need to enroll in the on-campus global engineering course to participate?
No. Enrollment in GEEN 4931 is not required to attend a program. While the course provides additional context, students may participate without it. However, attendance at monthly pre-departure meetings is mandatory.
Who is eligible to participate?
All undergraduate students are welcome to apply if they:
- Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5
- Are not on academic probation
- Understand and are prepared for the financial commitment of the program
Early applications are strongly encouraged as space is limited. 2027 program deadlines will be shared soon. Please note that a deposit is due within one week of receiving your acceptance.
During the scheduled program, all group activities are mandatory. During free time, students are encouraged to explore as they please. Students are also free to extend their visit before or after the official program dates.
This is my first time abroad. What should I pack? What else should I know?
Great! First time travelers are encouraged to participate. Prior to departure, pre-departure information will be shared with suggested packing lists, additional FAQs and more.
For additional questions, please email Lisa Chase, assistant director of engineering education.
Learn more and get in touch:
Students are encouraged to attend information sessions to learn more about each upcoming trip's details and requirements. For additional questions, please email Lisa Chase, assistant director of engineering education.
Additional international experiences for engineers:
Marquette offers a wide variety of international experiences for students, including longer-term abroad programs, on-campus courses and student organizations with international service missions. Engineering students are encouraged to explore opportunities that align with their academic and professional goals. Learn more.
